Etna Nord Top Crater Tour 3000m

Experience an adventurous and awe-inspiring journey from Piano Provenzana on the north side of Mount Etna, utilizing 4×4 off-road vehicles, authorized by the Etna Park Authority. Expert mountain guides will accompany you on this excursion, ensuring both safety and an educational experience.
The journey begins at an altitude of 1,800 meters at Piano Provenzana. From here, travel along a breathtaking panoramic road that winds through ancient craters and recent lava flows, leading you to the Volcanological Observatory at an elevation of 3000 meters.
Your first stop is the historic site of “Le Betulle” hotel, a remnant of the buildings engulfed by the lava flow on 27 October 2002, offering you a striking view of nature’s relentless power.
Next, proceed towards the Umberto and Margherita craters, positioned approximately at 2380 meters. Here, embark on a brief trek around the rims of these dormant craters, fully immersing in the raw, elemental forces of creation and destruction.

Continuing, venture in the direction of the Pizzi Deneri Volcanological Observatory. Upon arrival, disembark for a short 15-minute trek, ascending to the pinnacle of the Pizzi Deneri promontory. Weather permitting, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of the Aeolian Islands, the Ionian coastline stretching from Syracuse to Taormina, the Gulf of Giardini Naxos, and the rugged Calabrian shores.
While you’re here, gaze across the distance at the formidable summit craters of Mount Etna, securely viewing them as they loom over the majestic Valle del Bove.

As the excursion continues, board the vehicles for a descent towards the legendary button craters of the 2002 eruption. Standing at an altitude of around 1900 meters, begin a fascinating trek across the lava flows and explosive deposits. This circular path offers a unique opportunity to wander along the crater rims and witness the distinct “bottoniera” formation, characteristic of Etna’s lateral eruptions.
Upon reaching the summit at roughly 2050 meters above sea level, take in the dramatic panorama of the eruptive landscape and observe the path of the lava flow that decimated the Piano Provenzana resort. Conclude the trek with a brief descent down a sandy slope before rejoining the off-road vehicles for a return journey to Piano Provenzana.